The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Lieutenant Colonel (Armor) Charles Spurgeon Johnson, Jr., United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy while serving as a member of the Office of the Chief of Research and Development, Headquarters, Department of the Army, on 2 December 1965, near the River Entrance of the Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Colonel Johnson was approaching an exit in the Pentagon at approximately 5:15 p.m. when he saw a man with clothing aflame. The man had saturated his apparel with an inflammable liquid and ignited it in a suicide attempt. Colonel Johnson immediately ran to the man and, at great personal risk and complete disregard for his own safety, attempted to put out the fire. Although he sustained burns on his own hands and face, he worked diligently to extinguish the blaze and was then joined by another rescue volunteer. Through their coordinated efforts, which included the use of several coats provided by observers, the fire was extinguished and victim of self inflicted mortal injury was transported to a nearby dispensary. Colonel Johnson’s heroic conduct, prompt actions, and determination in this hazarded situation are in the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflect great credit upon himself and the military service.